"The program was started by the IRS to extend services to low-income taxpayers who were paying to have their taxes done," said Debbie Andrews, senior tax consultant with the IRS in Austin.

"When the earned income tax credit came out, it was difficult to calculate by hand or on your own."

Andrews said the program began only in cities where the IRS had offices.

"The program was evaluated in 2001, and the IRS realized it could serve more if VITA was moved into the communities and partnered with community organizations that already served these clients," said Andrews.

"Our volunteer preparers go through basic tax law training," said Andrews. "Resources are always on hand if a preparer has questions.

"We can always use more volunteers."

Volunteers are also needed as greeters, who make initial contact with clients when they arrive at the VITA site and screen them for eligibility.

Andrews and Smith both commended the VITA partners - Victoria County United Way, Workforce Solutions of the Golden Crescent, city of Victoria, Golden Crescent Regional Planning Commission, AARP and Wells Fargo.

"The program is only going to grow with a strong leader and strong organizations," she said. "We've got a good group of people in Victoria, and all of them do their part."

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FREE TAX ASSISTANCE ELIGIBILITY

Volunteers will be available to assist with tax preparation from Jan. 30 through April 12 from 4-7 p.m. Thursdays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays at the Victoria College Continuing Education Center facing Ben Jordan Street between Loma Vista Avenue and Red River Street. For more information, call 361-578-2989.

• Must bring valid Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number card for all family members

• Must bring valid photo identification

• Total household income must be less than $52,000

• Must bring all W2s and 1099s (if appropriate)

SOURCE: Internal Revenue Service

COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE OF VICTORIA BOARD ELECTION

Six positions are open on the Community Action Committee of Victoria board of directors. The committee administers the funds for weatherization, neighborhood services and the family outreach program to an 11-county service area. Positions are available in Victoria, Calhoun, DeWitt, Gonzales, Jackson and Lavaca counties. For more information, call Vicki Smith by Jan. 30 at 361-578-2989.